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byAlly Gibson | Last Updated:
Once you’re over the initial jetlag of the usual long-haul flight, Paris is a really fun city to go out partying.
It’s become one of my favorite cities to go out in, especially during the summer.
I could easily spend every warm evening picnicking along the Seine.
Wandering Paris at night often reminds me of the film Midnight in Paris, where you feel like anything can happen next.
Even when you’re single, there’s a constant romance in the air.
The possibility that the love of your life will walk through the door any minute because it’s Paris and everything feels possible!
I can’t guarantee that you’ll meet the partner of your dreams, but I can almost guarantee you will have a great time enjoying the nightlife in Paris at one of these popular spots.
I’ve organized them into categories that you can browse, depending on how wild you want your evening to be.
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Things You Need to Know About Paris Nightlife
The nightlife scene in Paris has its own unique vibe, which feels a little more low-key when compared to NYC.
For example, it’s rare you’ll see Parisians super trashed on the sidewalk. They can still drink a good amount, but they drink slowly and always keep it classy!
Most locals these days skip clubs in favor of drinking at their favorite bars. This way they avoid paying the cover fees most lounges and clubs charge.
They also take a pretty laissez-faire approach to dressing for a night out on the town.
You don’t need to toss on heels and a sexy party dress.
Most of the time Parisians just transition their daytime looks by adding a bit of lipstick or eyeshadow.
Whatever you do, don’t wear shorts and flip-flops in the summer. It’s a simple way to tell you’re a tourist, and might even get you denied entry at some spots.
In the winter, always bundle up with a warm jacket and thick scarf.
Parsians love drinking on terraces year-round, so layer accordingly!
Paris Nightlife: Where to Party Like a Local
If you want to go out dancing in Paris, these are the clubs to hit up.
Just remember you’ll want to have a solid amount of cash on you, as they all charge some sort of cover to get in!
La Machine Du Moulin Rouge
You can find this nightclub directly next to the more touristy Moulin Rouge with its famous windmill and can-can dancers.
In fact, they’re both owned by the same company.
The dance floor is large, the crowds are rowdy, and the bands and DJs are pretty decent.
They have three different spaces in the La Machine, so you can pick how wild to get.
Le Central is the primary room with a large crowd, dancing to the beats of some of the most popular artists.
The Chaufferie is found in the former boiler room of the Moulin Rouge, hosting about half the amount of people as the large dance floor.
Le Bar à Bulles is perfect for something a bit more low-key. This terrace bar hidden behind the Moulin Rouge is a popular after-work hangout.
Address: 90 Boulevard de Clichy- 18th arrondissem*nt
Petit Bain
Anchored on the Seine in the 13th arrondissem*nt, you’ll find Petit Bain.
It’s a restaurant, dance club, and rooftop bar rolled into one epic establishment.
Popular for its art exhibitions and concerts, this is the perfect spot for a wild summer night out dancing.
Check the line-up ahead of time, their music ranges from indie folk to rock, jazz, and even minimalist Norwegian pop!
Address: 7 Port de la Gare – 13th arrondissem*nt
Supersonic
With free entrance almost every night (except for DJ nights), Supersonic is a popular spot for Parisians in their 20s to dance and listen to live bands.
This two-floor venue offers plenty of space to let loose, though that sometimes means having a limited view of the stage.
Address: 9 Rue Biscornet – 11th arrondissem*nt
La Java
This famous nightclub where Edith Piaf and Django Reinhardt played is now home to lots of DJs and live bands.
These days La Java typically feature garage punk bands and electro-techno nights.
Address: 105 Rue du Faubourg du Temple, 75010 Paris, France
Best Things to Do in Paris at Night
If clubbing isn’t your scene, I’ve got plenty of other options for you to experience the best of Paris at night.
I’ve included some of my favorite things to do, plus a few bucket list items that I’m hoping to cross off on my next trip.
Grab Dinner and Drinks With a View
Paris is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, so why not enjoy its allure over dinner and drinks?
One of my favorite low-key things to do in Paris is to grab a bottle of vino, some cheese, a baguette, and macarons for an evening picnic along the Seine.
If you pick the right spot, you can see the Eiffel Tower as it sparkles.
If you want to go to an establishment with a view, check out one of these places:
Enjoy World-Class Cuisine
Paris is known for its gastronomy and overall delicious approach to food.
So it shouldn’t come as a total shock this city has a bunch of Michelin-starred restaurants.
In the city where some of the greatest chefs hail from, treat yourself to a fancy dinner that you’ll never forget.
If you’re not a big foodie, let the stars be your guide.
These are the restaurants you’ll want to book a reservation at months in advance:
Walk Along the Seine
Walking along the Seine is one of my favorite things to do in Paris, especially in the evening.
The city is truly magical lit up at night and this is the perfect path to take it all in.
By the time you’re done walking, you’ll understand why everyone calls Paris “The City of Lights”.
Further Reading
Catch a Cabaret
We’ve all heard legends of the Moulin Rouge with its can-can dancers, while you’re in town why not hit up this legendary location, turned touristy hot spot?
They put on a fun, sexy, and cheeky dinner show that will leave you in a great mood.
If you want to head to a spot less known, check out one of these places:
Book your spot at the Moulin Rouge today!
Check Out the Louvre
On Wednesdays and Fridays, the Louvre Museum closes late, giving you the perfect early evening activity.
The crowds are a lot smaller, and it’s more romantic (fewer kids running around).
I’d aim for visiting on Wednesday night if you’re in town for the best chance to see the artwork without a ton of people around.
Also, check out the glass pyramid all lit up when you leave. It makes for a pretty stunning photo!
Attend a Wine Tasting
Do you want to learn a bit more about French vino while you drink?
Book a wine tasting for the ultimate educational night out in Paris.
You’ll impress all your friends at home with your new knowledge the next time you order wine in front of them.
These are some of the most popular tastings to check out!
Visit the Eiffel Tower
Everyone should officially visit the Eiffel Tower at least once, by riding up to their observation decks.
The view is out of this world, especially at night.
It’s also super romantic, so don’t be surprised if you catch a proposal.
You can either book a visit to their observation areas, or score a reservation at their restaurant for the ultimate dinner with a view.
Enjoy the Opera Garnier
The Opera Garnier is the legendary home of The Phantom of the Opera, and a must-visit, especially on an evening when they have a show.
They mainly use the venue for ballet performances these days, so look ahead and book tickets early.
If you can’t score tickets to a show, you can still check out the venue by booking a night time tour about the building’s many mysteries.
This is something that’s was the top of my bucket list—I got to cross it off during my last visit to Paris.
The evening I spent at the opera is easily one of my favorite nights I’ve ever spent in Paris.
The performance was amazing, the interiors were dreamy, and even though I went solo, I quickly made a new friend!
Local’s Tip: I was able to score 10 Euro partial view seats the morning of the performance by checking in with the box office.
Go Night Swimming
Piscine Pontoise is a 1930s art déco pool that’s open late for anyone in need of a relaxing swim.
Take advantage of this stunning public pool and go for a little dip.
It’s the perfect way to unwind after a long day of sightseeing and may even revive you enough to grab a drink afterward.
Sip Wine at a Cafe
Parisians love their cafes, so do what the French do and grab a seat at one.
You can sip wine, nibble on some cheese and olives, and watch the world go by.
These are some of the most popular cafes in Paris:
Hit Up a Jazz Club
Paris is well known for its jazz scene, so it only makes sense you should experience it.
La Gare is my favorite go-to spot for jazz when I’m in town.
It’s an adorable spot to enjoy an evening of jazz outdoors with no entrance fee.
It’s a really low-key local spot, with a small affordable bar and delicious no-fuss food offered by a food truck.
This is one place that takes its music seriously, so save your chatting for after the show.
Local’s Tip: Bring some cash to tip the performers!
Address: 1 Avenue Corentin Cariou (19th arrondissem*nt)
Last Call
“The City of Lights” is the perfect name for Paris, because as you’ll see, it truly shines bright at night.
I hope this list inspires you to enjoy Paris’ nightlife while you’re in town.
Exploring Paris at night will always be one of my favorite activities. The city really is magical!
Let me know in the comments below what you’re most looking forward to doing during your night out in Paris!
Check out some of these popular nighttime tours of Paris!
